Are you successful? Are you ever satisfied? I spend a lot of my time striving for more. Working hard to get ahead seems like an endless race against the clock. Kind of like laundry at my house, it is never completely done. Hard work is fulfilling, but interestingly enough, I think it is can also distract you from the goal of actually getting the job done. Learning to focus on what will lead to success is not always an easy task.


There are a few skills that can be honed and developed in order to achieve that ever-illusive success. Accomplishment can be within your grasp, and within mine. Diligence and constant development will pay off.

1. Do you know who you are? Are you truly aware of your needs and wants? Are you able to distinguish between the two? Self awareness is often not considered an essential element to success. Think of stories of success around you, are the main characters in those stories self-aware? Probably so.

2. Do you offer encouragement to those around you? Do you motivate others to drive their own success or are you too caught up in your own personal battles to notice the struggles that others face?

3. Do you quiet dissention when possible? Being a peacemaker can go a long way in teaching you negotiation skills and also understanding that management also applies to oneself. Conflict can be a barrier to any endeavor. Be open and receptive but not a doormat. In other words, pick your battles.

4. Do you bring personal issues to the work place? This is a skill that is more difficult for some to develop. Not carrying personal stress through your workplace door and through your day is a gift. Enjoy the break from that stress and concentrate what you can give back.

and lastly...,

5. What have you done to be an influencer? Taking your knowledge, skill and experience and sharing what you have learned with others is a great way to drive your own personal success. Being an influencer builds your own personal power base. As long as you keep your ego in check and use that power for good and not evil, this is a great skill to develop.

“You don't have to be a "person of influence" to be influential. In fact, the most influential people in my life are probably not even aware of the things they've taught me.” ~Scott Adams





by rayannethorn